Understanding Infant Colic
Infant colic is a commonly reported phenomenon where babies cry excessively during their early months, often with an enigmatic and distressing character. Colic is estimated to beat affecting between 5% and to 40% of infants worldwide. The condition typically presents in the second or third week of life, peaks when babies are 4-6 weeks old and usually gets better around 10-12 weeks of age. Babies with colic are healthy, and eating and growing well but they cry for no apparent reason. Understandably, navigating this time can be challenging for new parents. Homeopathy for colic can offer gentle relief both for the child and, by extension, the whole household.
Colic is characterized by repeated episodes of inconsolable crying in infants without specific identifiable reasons. If an infant has repeated episodes of crying even after proper cleaning, being fed and being well cared then we should suspect the chances of colic. Associated symptoms include intense crying, irregular sleeping patterns, interrupted feeding, clenched fists, and restlessness.
What causes colic?
Infants cry for various reasons that may not be due to colic but one must rule out the other chances like hunger, cold, heat or needing a diaper change etc. Other acute medical causes for crying and discomfort also need to be ruled out. Ear infections and, fevers are prime examples of this. Seek medical attention if your baby has a high fever, is less alert or is not sucking and feeding well.
Oversensitive to stimuli, pain due to abdominal gas, pain due to reflux, immature nervous system, immature gastrointestinal tract, lactose intolerance, and mum’s diet may be some other possible reasons for colic and crying. While the exact cause of infantile colic is unknown. studies suggest that indigestion may be involved in colic. It is always best to have your baby checked over by a medical professional who can give you an accurate diagnosis.
Reflux is common in babies, especially after they have fed. This is because their immature gastrointestinal tract and the muscle at the entrance of the stomach are not yet strong enough to hold the stomach contents. Instead, they come back up into the oesophagus or the mouth. This does not usually cause pain or any issues with weight gain, and it is a completely harmless condition that babies grow out of it as their digestive system develops.
How homeopathy for colic can help
There are various methods to calm an infant with colic. Many are non medical, such as:
- wrapping up firmly in a blanket
- being held,
- sitting the baby upright when feeding,
- a warm bath or gentle massage
If these methods not working then you should seek professional medical attention.
Homeopathy support for colic
Homeopathy addresses the symptoms of colic, but also considers the baby’s overall health and well-being. By looking at the baby’s unique symptoms including physical, emotional, and mental aspects, homeopathy aims to heal the underlying causes of colic rather than just calming down the symptoms temporarily. Homeopathic medicines are prepared from natural substances and they can be administered to any age group. This holistic approach helps longer-lasting relief from colic
Support for the Mother
Dealing with a colicky baby can be emotionally challenging for mums in particular. Homeopaths not only provide remedies for the baby but also offer support to mothers. Homeopathic remedies can help to cope up the stress and exhaustion the baby with colic can cause. Homeopathic remedies can offer significant relief for anxiety and stress-related issues, making them a valuable aid for breastfeeding mothers. These remedies are gentle yet effective, providing support without compromising the well-being of both the mother and the baby.
Homeopathic medicines are prepared from natural substances and they can be administered to any age group.
For more information or to schedule an appointment to discover how homeopathy for colic can help your family, contact me today by phone on 0402 675 683.
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